The UK’s post-Brexit border landscape is continuing to evolve with a notable shift from advisory to enforcement-led customs control by HMRC. Following updates introduced under the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), including new safety and security (S&S) declaration requirements, government authorities are now taking a firmer stance on compliance.
Central to this move is HMRC’s plan to significantly boost its compliance capabilities. Over the next five years, 500 new compliance officers will be added annually, bringing the total increase to 5,500 officers by the end of the 2029/30 financial year. This marks a decisive turn toward hands-on regulation, indicating that the era of leniency and education is coming to an end.
One of the earliest signs of this tougher approach is the introduction of civil penalties for hauliers. As of 7 April 2025, failing to provide complete Movement Reference Numbers (MRN) in the Goods Movement Reference (GMR) at Goods Vehicle Movement Service(GVMS) ports can now result in fines of up to £2,500. While HMRC and Border Force previously handed out informational flyers to ease traders into compliance, that transition period has ended with financial consequences now in force for non-compliance.
Another major procedural change involves the rejection of C21 customs clearance requests that use the 9-series Additional Procedure Codes (91U and 96M) for short shipments. This decision closes a long-standing loophole, tightening controls at inventory-linked ports and ensuring all goods movements are backed by proper declarations.
On the intelligence front, HMRC is also stepping up its game. Collaborating with the Home Office, compliance officers now use enhanced data-matching techniques combining HMRC’s own risk analytics tools with Companies House records. This integrated approach is designed to spotlight unusual trade patterns and detect suspicious behaviour more effectively.
These changes underscore HMRC’s strategic pivot toward proactive enforcement powered by data and manpower. The message to importers and exporters is clear; adapt swiftly to the new regulatory climate or risk facing operational delays and costly penalties.
For more information reach out to our customs team today https://denholmgoodlogistics.com/contact/
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